Westminster, CA vs. Fullerton, CA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Imagine two families: The Nguyens, renting a 2-bedroom apartment in Westminster for $2,400 per month, and the Garcias, paying $2,800 for a similar place in Fullerton. When it comes to groceries, the Nguyens spend about $800 monthly at the local Saigon City Supermarket, while the Garcias shell out $950 at Ralphs. Whose budget stretches further in 2025 — and which city offers the better lifestyle fit? Let’s break down the key cost of living differences between Westminster and Fullerton, CA.
Housing Costs: Westminster vs Fullerton
Housing is the biggest line item in most budgets, so let’s start there. Here’s what you can expect to pay for rent or a mortgage in Westminster compared to Fullerton:
| Housing Type | Westminster | Fullerton |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Rent) | $2,400 | $2,800 |
| 3BR House (Mortgage) | $3,500 | $4,000 |
🏆 Winner: Westminster. You’ll pay about 15-20% less for housing of comparable size in Westminster vs Fullerton. For more details, check out the full cost of living breakdown for Westminster.
Utilities and Energy Costs
In sunny SoCal, AC bills can soar in the summer. Here’s what to budget monthly for utilities in each city:
- Westminster: $180-$250
- Fullerton: $200-$280
🏆 Winner: Westminster, but not by much. Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Westminster’s large Vietnamese community means great deals on Asian groceries and cheap eats. Expect to spend about 10-15% less on food and dining out than in Fullerton. For a typical family, here’s a sample monthly budget for living expenses in Westminster:
- Groceries: $800
- Dining Out: $400
- Entertainment: $250
In Fullerton, budget about $950 for groceries, $500 for restaurants, and $300 for fun.
🏆 Winner: Westminster. You’ll save on everyday expenses, especially if you love Vietnamese food!
Taxes and Fees
California is known for high taxes, and Orange County is no exception. But there are a few differences between Westminster and Fullerton:
- Property Tax Rate: 1.1% in Westminster vs 1.2% in Fullerton
- Utility Tax: 5% in Westminster vs 6% in Fullerton
- Typical HOA Fees: $250-400 in Westminster vs $300-500 in Fullerton
🏆 Winner: Westminster. While the differences are small, Westminster comes out slightly ahead on local taxes and fees.
Cost of Living Summary: Westminster vs Fullerton
| Category | Westminster | Fullerton |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR Rent) | $2,400 | $2,800 |
| Utilities | $200 | $240 |
| Groceries | $800 | $950 |
| Transportation | $500 | $550 |
| Misc Expenses | $650 | $800 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,550 | $5,340 |
Lifestyle Fit: Westminster or Fullerton?
While Westminster wins on costs, Fullerton has its perks too. Fullerton averages 5°F cooler than Westminster in the summer, thanks to ocean breezes. And if you work in LA, Fullerton offers an easier commute via Metrolink.
But for square footage, diversity, and overall affordability, Westminster comes out on top. You can rent a house with a yard in Westminster for the price of an apartment in Fullerton. Plus, Westminster’s vibrant Little Saigon district can’t be beat for flavor.
Westminster vs Fullerton Cost of Living FAQ
Q: Is Westminster more affordable than Fullerton?
A: Yes, Westminster has a lower cost of living than Fullerton across all major categories like housing, food, and utilities.
Q: Which city has lower rent, Westminster or Fullerton?
A: Rent is about 15-20% cheaper in Westminster compared to Fullerton for apartments and houses of similar size.
Q: Is it less expensive to buy a home in Westminster or Fullerton?
A: Buying a home is more affordable in Westminster. Expect to pay around $3,500 per month for a 3BR house in Westminster, versus $4,000 or more in Fullerton.
Conclusion
For most lifestyles and budgets, Westminster offers a lower cost of living than Fullerton. You’ll save on rent/mortgage, food, and local taxes. Fullerton may be a better fit if you prefer cooler weather or easier metro access to LA — but expect to pay more for housing and everyday expenses.
Considering other cities in the OC? Check out our cost of living comparisons for Irvine, Anaheim, Huntington Beach, and more.